Member CD Reviews

The smoothest of cool jazz, with an all star line up- David Benoit and Kenny G to name a few.

CD Reviews

Moonlighting...One of My Three Favorites

Armando M. Mesa | Chandler, AZ | 01/13/2005

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I own only three Rippingtons titles: Moonlighting, Tourist in Paradise, and Life In The Tropics. All three are like your kids...you can't have just one favorite. Likewise, all three titles are my Rippingtons favorites. Moonlighting is where it all started for the Rippingtons. It's great contemporary, fusion jazz with guest performances by Kenny G on a few tracks (a year before he would strike it big with his own Duotones album) and David Benoit.Moonlighting by Russ Freeman and his crew evokes a positive, uplifting beginning and welcoming invitation to the rest of their future releases ! Absolutely the kind of music to calm the jangled nerves and get rid of the daily work stress or traffic jam anxiety and still awesome enough to dance to with that someone special. It's definitely music for pure pleasure for the senses, mind, heart and soul.

"Rippington's during the period Moonlighting was made were the epitomy of Jazz fusion with latino flair. Fusion today is milk toast compared to this CD. "Soft Jazz" has become the term for bands and artists of this genre, and it fits. All radio friendly and crossover hopeful. This CD smokes with vibes, fast guitar, syncapated rythyms, and memorable melodies. Toe tapping and should be played twice in a row to let it sink in. Russ Freeman is the most under-rated jazz guitarist of his time. He is never mentioned with Carlton, Rit, Lorber, Dimeola,etc..... He is a great songwriter and his music appeals to all that listen, old and young alike......"

A review of The Rippington's Moonlighting.

James Houser | NY, NY | 06/17/2003

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Moonlighting is the definitive album by The Rippingtons. It was their very first and was released in 1986. This record is great and it's a fantastic example of their unique and recognizable sound. This has some great music on it.My top 3 favorite tracks from this are 1,4, and 7. Moonlighting, their very first song, is great and has a nice clear, relaxing sound to it. Dreams is another good piece with a mellow melody and very nice synthesizer noises. Open All Night is a great song with an upbeat tempo. In fact, Kenny G does the soprano saxophone on this particular song.Broadly intaking, this is a classic cd by the group. It defines their sound and sets many new standards. If you're looking for a great Rippingtons album, purchase this. It will open you up to the group and you won't be dissapointed. Thank you for taking the time and generosity to read my review."

Definitely the best

Jazzy J | USA | 08/16/2005

(5 out of 5 stars)

"My Rippingtons collection started with Life in the Tropics and I worked backward. I finally ended up at Moonlighting, and boy what a treat! I'd read such good reviews about this CD, I purchased it without hearing a single note. Definitely my favorite Ripps release, and surely one of my favorite CDs period! If you don't have Moonlighting, get it!"

Rippingtons First

Andres E. Hands F | Caracas, D.F. Venezuela | 07/08/2000

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This album started the Rippingtons Saga of success, it includes such lovely tunes as "She Likes To Watch", "Angela" "Moonlighting" and one of my all time favorites "Dreams". A perfect music for a romantic "moonlight" chat with a love one"